MLB.com is reporting that the Orioles have resigned outfielder Corey Patterson to a minor league deal and have assigned him to extended spring training. Patterson opted out of his contract with the Mariners on March 31st after he was informed he would not make the team. With Felix Pie out for the next three months, Patterson has a legitimate chance to play with the big league club.
Last year, Patterson played in 113 combined games for the Triple-A affiliates of the Brewers and Nationals, batting .292 with 12 homers, 62 RBIs and 21 stolen bases. In 16 total games in the Majors for those clubs, he went 3-for-29.
Patterson is only a career .252 hitter, but his speed makes him a constant threat on the field and on the basepaths.